A number of passionate constituents have asked for my views on Fox Hunting, and a possible vote to repeal the current Fox Hunting Act, following the forthcoming General Election.

Since I was first elected in 2010, I have been clear that if there was a vote to repeal the current Act then I would listen to constituents and make a decision based on the views of my constituents at that point.

This matter has been more high profile during this election than previously, therefore it has given me a far greater insight into the views of a significant number of local people than previously.

In terms of my view, firstly I don’t believe that at a time when we are going to embark of a massive legislative exercise as we leave the EU, I don’t think that the subject of Fox Hunting should be top of any agenda for legislative change, a view shared by the Prime Minister. And secondly, having taken soundings from a significant number of people, of all political persuasions, if there were to be a free vote on the issue, I would not vote to repeal the current Act.

I hope this helps to clarify my position.